Desk Snacks & HG's Kitchen Accessories!

I need ideas for guilt-free snacks that are quick 'n cheap and can be eaten at my desk. I work long hours at a computer, and I'm always munching on something. Please help!

On-a-Budget Desk Snacker

Hi Desk Snacker,

I've got tons of desk-friendly snack options that'll satisfy you without breaking the money bank or the calorie bank...

DIY 100-Calorie Packs - Portion control is a lifesaver when it comes to mindless munching, but those pre-packaged 100-calorie snacks can be pricey. Luckily, it's super-easy to make your own packs at home -- just divvy up large bags of the items you crave (chips, pretzels, nuts, etc.) into small plastic baggies or containers. Here's a handy guide to get you started -- there's even a few mini recipes!

Seasonal Fruits & Veggies - One of the best ways to save money is to buy produce when it's in season. Mangoes, strawberries, and cherries are all in season right now. Carrots and cucumbers are pretty much in abundance all year, but this is their peak season, and they're perfect for munching on. Save money by buying them whole and slicing 'em yourself (as opposed to getting pre-cut produce).

Shelf-Stable Protein - Don't let the shelf-stable thing scare you. There are lots of delicious, filling, protein-packed snacks that don't need any refrigeration. Grab some pouched albacore tuna or salmon in water next time you're at the grocery store -- no draining needed, so it's less messy than the canned stuff. Then pile it onto rice cakes (lots of stores have generic versions that are cheaper than brand names), or serve with a quartered bell pepper (use the pieces for scooping). Jerky is another good choice -- it's usually low in fat and calories, and there are many varieties to choose from, so you won't get bored.

Stock Up During Sales and Buy in Bulk - In addition to store discounts, look for online deals. Amazon's grocery section often has great specials on items like those tuna and salmon pouches, rice cakes, and jerky. And once you find a few snacks you love, it pays to buy a bunch at a time.

Happy snacking!

Hey HG,

I watch your show on TV and am obsessed with your kitchen! The storage containers, colorful knives, mini blender, that fridge... Fill me in! Where can I get everything?

Kitchen Envy

Hi Kitchen Envy,

I love that kitchen too! There's a lot of my personality in there, from the retro colors to the fun knickknacks. Here's the 411...

Let's start with the kitchen basics. So many people have written in asking about the snazzy pop-top storage containers on the show. Not only do they have little push-down/pop-up buttons that create airtight seals, but also they're stackable! They're made by OXO -- you can find them in stores like Target, or order them online. The measuring spoons and cups come from the same brand. The colorful Komachi knives are made by a company called Kai -- they're available online (Amazon has great prices) and in stores like Bed Bath & Beyond. They're super-sharp and work great. When it comes to blending, the big pink blender you've seen on TV is from Cuisinart -- that brand makes a ton of adorable pink appliances. The mini blender I use on the show -- the Magic Bullet Platinum Pro -- has been discontinued, but you can still find it on Amazon. That thing is AMAZING.

Now for the big-ticket items... The colorful retro stove and fridge came from Big Chill (in a custom pink color). And the giant gummy bears lining the kitchen shelves are made by Jellio -- you can get them here!

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CHEW ON THIS:

Today, May 30th, is National Mint Julep Day. A mint julep is a cocktail made with mint leaves, bourbon, and sugar. For an HG-ified take (if you're of the legal drinking age, of course), swap out that sugar for no-calorie sweetener, like Splenda or Truvia!

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